GRANDVILLE – Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids is being honored for being green.

The nonprofit organization, headquartered at 3035 Prairie St. in Grandville, recently received the Michigan Recycling Coalition's Excellence in Recycling Award. The award aims to recognize organizations throughout the state that lead the way in innovative waste reduction and recycling programs.

"It is such an honor for our Goodwill to have received this award," said Nick Carlson, vice president of donated goods and operations. "Our team has worked so hard to develop a strong recycling program."

Carlson said since 2008, Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids has reduced its waste volume by 45 percent even though the volume it is bringing in has increased by 33 percent. He said the waste reduction has saved the organization more than $180,000 a year, which has led to more job creation.

Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids provides job training and employment at no cost for people with disabilities and other obstacles to employment.